Gyotaku is the result of a decades-long partnership built on passion, experience, and friendship. Co-owners Tom Jones, Nobutaka "Tony" Sato, and William Okimoto bring together their diverse culinary backgrounds to create one of Hawaii's most beloved Japanese restaurant brands.
Tom grew up on the Jersey Shore and developed an early passion for cooking. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America at just 19, he worked his way up the culinary ladder before making a bold move to Tokyo to pursue his goal of working the sushi counter in Japan. Overcoming cultural and language barriers, Tom found employment at Kyotaru, where he trained in Japanese cuisine and eventually achieved his dream working at a sushi bar in Shibuya. Kyotaru Corporation asked him to help expand its restaurant operations in Hawaii in 1986 and he has been involved in serving Japanese food here ever since.
Born into a family of restaurateurs in Japan, Tony's passion for food started at an early age. After studying at Senshu University in Tokyo, he gained experience in restaurant management and marketing at Kyotaru Corporation, where he worked in both Japan and China. His deep understanding of Japanese culinary traditions and business strategy played a crucial role in shaping Gyotaku's identity.
Willy grew up surrounded by the surf and sandy beaches of Hawaii. He began his culinary career at Kaimuki Inn in 1977 and worked at various restaurants before becoming the Executive Chef for Kyotaru Hawaii in 1987. It was at Kyotaru that Willy met Tom and Tony, forming a lasting friendship and training in Japanese cuisine in Tokyo. This partnership eventually led to their co-ownership of Gyotaku Japanese Restaurants. With over 35 years of kitchen management experience, Willy continues to play a key role in developing and training the next generation of culinary talent.
Together, Tom, Tony, and Willy have built Gyotaku into a restaurant chain that blends tradition with innovation—offering a welcoming space for both local families and visitors looking to experience authentic Japanese flavors in Hawaii.
